Philanthropist Charles Butt

Charles Butt, Chairman of H-E-B will make a $20 million personal gift to support 20 food banks in the state of Texas. In announcing the donation, philanthropist Butt noted, “The thought of children going hungry anywhere is painful but to have that happen here in Texas is unacceptable.”  It is estimated that four million of the Texas population experience food insecurity with 20 percent of this demographic represented by children.

Donation will go directly to each of 20 food banks to acquire and distribute food to meet the needs of communities.

Food banks nationwide are experiencing difficulty in meeting obligations since the TEFAP, an emergency food assistance program operated by the USDA and introduced during the COVID years, has terminated.  Underemployment is responsible for food insecurity even among middle class families. The situation will be exacerbated if the House version of the Farm Bill with cuts to SNAP is adopted.

H-E-B has a long record of community support.  The company Hunger Relief program donated 33 million pounds of food to families in need in 2023.